Pulling Nails

This subject is not often covered and seems trivial. However,
those who lack the brute physical strength necessary to haul out 16 penny sinkers likely
feel differently. A few tips can help get you get rolling, it is a matter of applying
your available strength properly.

Items needed:

Hammer
Wood block
"Cat's paw" (optional)

Safety Suggestions and Tips

Use eye protection
Wear gloves if necessary

Level of difficulty

Time Required:

0 hours

Steps

Normal method

Step 1:

Examine the nail to be pulled. If it is mostly or completely driven in, apply the
claw part of the Claw Hammer and pull/push on the handle.

Pulling w/ block

Step 2:

In the event that you are faced with a nail that is partially driven (or pulled) you will likely
have to employ a block to get better leverage. This is especially true of older construction.
As the wood dries, it clamps down on the nail making it very difficult to remove.

Sideways

Step 3:

If there is no block available or the head of the nail comes off, the hammer may
be turned sideways and pry the nail loose. This does not tend to work as well with
older hammers as the edges inside of the claw are somewhat smoother.

Cat's Paw

Step 4:

If you have many nails to pull, you might consider employing a "cat's paw" or wrecking
bar. These tools have a special shape which makes it easier to pull lots of nails without
wearing yourself out.